by Molly Eide Marquez

In the heart of Clovis, California, nestled among the bustling streets and warm community vibes, lies a hidden gem––Monkey Dog Coffee. This coffee shop isn’t just another caffeine stop; it’s a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, family values, and the spirit of community. I had the pleasure of speaking with Alexander (Alex) Oseuna, the owner and operator of Monkey Dog Coffee, who shared the inspiring journey behind this beloved establishment.

Monkey Dog Coffee isn’t your typical coffee joint. For Alex, every day brings new duties that reflect the ever-changing needs of his thriving business. As we chatted, he excitedly mentioned their current milestone of hiring their fifth employee, a testament to their growth and success within the community.

Celebrating its upcoming two-year anniversary on June 16, Monkey Dog Coffee is gearing up for a special event to mark the occasion. But what truly sets this coffee shop apart is its deep-rooted connection with the community. From hosting events like “Chiefs and Coffee” with the Clovis Police Department and the Clovis Fire Department, to partnering with local car clubs, Monkey Dog Coffee isn’t just a place to grab your morning brew; it’s a hub of community engagement and connection.

The name “Monkey Dog Coffee” holds a special significance for Alex and his family. Derived from endearing nicknames for his son and daughter, Alex shared, “We named our shop after a combination of nicknames we call our kids. The name was so ridiculous, it stuck immediately!”

What started as a passion for roasting small batches of coffee on Alex’s stove has blossomed into a full-fledged brick-and-mortar establishment, complete with its own unique charm and character.

Entrepreneurship runs deep in Alex’s veins. From hustling Pokémon cards as a kid to navigating the corporate ladder before finding his true calling, he’s always been driven by a desire to create something meaningful. In 2022, armed with determination and a dream, Alex opened Monkey Dog Coffee, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

Choosing the location strategically, Alex positioned Monkey Dog Coffee near Fresno County’s Department of Social Services campus, initially catering to county employees. However, the shop’s reputation quickly spread, attracting visitors from far and wide. “We’ve become a destination for folks,” Alex proudly shared, highlighting the shop’s growing popularity beyond the local community. Monkey Dog Coffee has attracted customers traveling through the area on their way to Yosemite or to the Sequoia National Forest.

Looking ahead, Alex envisions expanding Monkey Dog Coffee with a second location, ideally equipped with a kitchen to explore more creative food options. Drawing inspiration from his upbringing filled with homemade meals and cherished family recipes, Alex hopes to infuse the menu with a touch of Mexican influence, paying homage to his heritage and culinary roots.

When it comes to coffee, Monkey Dog Coffee offers an array of tantalizing options. Alex’s personal favorite, the mocha cold brew or a quad shot mocha with oat milk, promises to jolt you awake even at 5 a.m. Meanwhile, their most popular concoctions, the Monkey Mocha or the Oat ‘n Brown Sugar Latte, delight taste buds with every sip. The Oat ‘n Brown Sugar latte features cinnamon steamed into the oat milk and brown sugar melted down by two shots of espresso.

To stay updated on Monkey Dog Coffee’s latest offerings and events, Alex recommends following them on Instagram @monkeydogcoffee or visiting their website, monkeydogcoffee.com.

Speaking of events, mark your calendars for June 16 for their upcoming two-year anniversary celebration! From fire and police department personnel to drink specials and merch, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this community-centric affair.

At the heart of Monkey Dog Coffee lies a close-knit team driven by passion, dedication, and a shared love for serving their community. With Alex at its helm and his brother Adam by his side, Monkey Dog Coffee isn’t just a business, it’s a family affair, infused with warmth, authenticity, and a whole lot of heart.

Monkey Dog Coffee
386 West Ashlan Avenue Suite F
Clovis, CA 93612

Molly is a Central Valley native, where she and her family live, work, and play. A graduate of CSU Fresno, she is actively involved in the local community and is proud to lift up those around her, shining light on the many wonderful people and organizations that make the Central Valley such a great place to live.